UEFA approve Real Madrid's special request for Arsenal game which Carlo Ancelotti believes 'can encourage the team'

The Spanish giants have to overturn a 3-0 deficit from the first leg when they host the Gunners at the Santiago Bernabeu in the quarter-final tie this week. They are hoping for the best possible atmosphere from the home crowd and requested permission from UEFA to allow them to leave the roof closed during the match.

UEFA has granted permission to Madrid to close the roof which will come as a significant boost to Carlo Ancelotti, who has spoken of the advantage he feels it gives his side. The roof was closed when they beat Bayern Munich in the semi-final of the Champions League last season, seeing two late Joselu goals steal the victory.

He said: "Acoustically it's different, there's more noise, a much better atmosphere, I think. That can encourage the team to be even more motivated."

Madrid have lost four home matches in all competitions this season and went down 2-1 to Valencia in their last outing in the Spanish capital.

Ancelotti will hope the home support can inspire his team to an incredible come back as they look to keep their hopes of retaining the Champions League title alive.